"Madame Binh": Vietnam’s Steel Rose

"Madame Binh": Vietnam’s Steel Rose

In modern Vietnamese history, Nguyen Thi Binh, the former Vice President of Vietnam, stands out as a preeminent figure. An exceptional diplomat, she symbolizes the intelligence, courage, and spirit of Vietnamese women on the international stage.

Former Vice President Nguyen Thi Binh (August 2025). Photo: Cong Dat/VNP

Nguyen Thi Binh, born Nguyen Thi Chau Sa on May 26, 1927, in Quang Nam Province (now Da Nang), came from a family deeply rooted in patriotism.

As the granddaughter of Phan Chau Trinh - a great patriot and reformer of the early 20th century - she was instilled with a sense of independence, progressive thinking, and a dedication to serving her country from an early age.

 

On January 27, 1973, in Paris, France, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Provisional Revolutionary Government of the Republic of South Vietnam, Nguyen Thi Binh, signed the Paris Agreement on Ending the War and Restoring Peace in Vietnam. Photo: Van Luong/VNA

Starting in 1945, she joined the movement to seize power in Saigon, becoming an active revolutionary and a member of the Executive Committee of the South Vietnamese Women's Liberation Association. In 1948, she joined the Communist Party of Vietnam. Her imprisonment by the French colonialists in Chi Hoa Prison from 1951 to 1953 further forged her will and resolve, transforming her into an unyielding revolutionary fighter.

 

Party General Secretary To Lam presents the title of Hero of Labor to  Nguyen Thi Binh, former member of the Party Central Committee, former Vice President, and former Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Provisional Revolutionary Government of the Republic of South Vietnam. Photo: Pham Hai

Nguyen Thi Binh's diplomatic career is inextricably linked to one of the most challenging periods in the nation's history: the resistance against American imperialism. Following the 1968 Tet Offensive and General Uprising, mounting international pressure forced the US to accept negotiations with Vietnamese representatives. In this pivotal context, Nguyen Thi Binh was appointed head of the negotiating delegation for the Provisional Revolutionary Government of the Republic of South Vietnam at the Paris Peace Conference.

 

Party and State leaders present flowers to former Vice President Nguyen Thi Binh on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Paris Agreement on Ending the War and Restoring Peace in Vietnam (January 27, 1973 - 2023). Photo: Pham Hai

 

Immediately upon her arrival in Paris on November 4, 1968, she made a powerful impression on the international community with her speech introducing the five-point solution proposed by the Provisional Revolutionary Government of the Republic of South Vietnam. Her candid delivery, sharp arguments, and confident demeanor earned praise from the Western press, which respectfully dubbed her "Madame Binh”.

 

 

The life and career of Nguyen Thi Binh will forever be an invaluable source of inspiration for future generations, not only igniting national pride but also serving as a lesson in solidarity, resilience, and patriotism. Photo: Cong Dat/VNP

Throughout nearly five years of intense negotiations, Nguyen Thi Binh was the embodiment of the voice of peace, steadfastly defending the just cause of her nation. With her courage, flexibility, and skillful negotiation tactics, she helped create international pressure that forced the US to negotiate seriously and make concessions step by step.

 

On January 27, 1973, she was the only woman among the four representatives to sign the Paris Peace Accords - a historical document that officially ended the war and restored peace in Vietnam. The image of Nguyen Thi Binh at the signing ceremony is a symbol not only of Vietnamese diplomacy but also of the Vietnamese woman's presence on the world stage.

Former Vice President Nguyen Thi Binh at the ceremony for the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Paris Agreement on Ending the War and Restoring Peace in Vietnam (January 27, 1973 - 2023). Photo: Pham Hai

Western media referred to her as a "rose dancing among wolves" - a powerful metaphor that praised her delicate yet resilient, gentle yet fierce, nature. She embodies a rare combination of strategic acumen, composure in high-pressure situations, and superb persuasive ability - qualities that define a brilliant diplomat.

 

After the success of the Paris Conference, Nguyen Thi Binh was entrusted with many other important responsibilities: Minister of Education, Deputy Head of the Central Party's Commission for External Relations, Head of the National Assembly's Committee on Foreign Affairs, and notably, Vice President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam from 1992 to 2002.

Authorized by the Party General Secretary and President of Laos, Ambassador of Laos to Vietnam Khamphao Ernthavanh respectfully presents the Freedom Order (Itxala Order) of the State of Laos to former Vice President Nguyen Thi Binh (May 2025). Photo: Pham Hai
Authorized by the Party General Secretary and President of Laos, Ambassador of Laos to Vietnam Khamphao Ernthavanh respectfully presents the Freedom Order (Itxala Order) of the State of Laos to former Vice President Nguyen Thi Binh (May 2025). Photo: Pham Hai

Even in retirement, she continues to serve the nation through people-to-people diplomacy. Since 2003, she has served as the President of the Vietnam Peace and Development Foundation, actively promoting humanitarian activities, education, and peace dialogues. In this role, she continues her mission of connecting Vietnam with international friends through a flexible, persistent, and effective form of diplomacy.

Former Vice President Nguyen Thi Binh is a living example of patriotism, intelligence, and the role of Vietnamese women in the nation-building and defense efforts over the past 80 years. Photo: Cong Dat/VNP


Nguyen Thi Binh is more than just a stateswoman; she is a special chapter in Vietnam's modern history. Her life and career are a testament to the synthesis of revolutionary will and national spirit, strategic thinking, and profound compassion. In her, one sees a Vietnamese diplomacy that is courageous and persistent yet flexible, and resolute yet humane. She is a living example of patriotism, intellect, and the role of women in the 80-year-long cause of building and defending the nation./.

Story: Thao Vy Photos: Pham Hai, Cong Dat/VNP & Files Translated by Hong Hanh


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